Pinellas County Commission Approves Funding for New Stadium

CLEARWATER — The Pinellas County Commission made a significant move on Tuesday by approving the funding for a new Tampa Bay Rays stadium, estimated to cost around $1.3 billion. However, the commission's message was clear: the next step rests firmly in the hands of the team owners.

Chairperson Kathleen Peters emphasized, 'The onus is on them,' indicating that it is now up to the Rays' management to decide if they wish to proceed with the ambitious plan to establish a stadium along with a sprawling residential, entertainment, and business district adjacent to downtown.

Rays Organization Voices Concerns

Despite the board's 5-2 vote, which just a month ago appeared unlikely, the Rays organization did not attend the meeting and is still voicing concerns about the deal. In a post-vote statement, team president Matt Silverman criticized the commission for delays, claiming they would postpone the stadium's opening to 2029 and escalate costs. According to a previous agreement made in July, the Rays are responsible for any overruns.

'It was unsurprising to see the Commissioners acknowledge how important the Tampa Bay Rays and our stadium development agreement are to this community and its citizens,' Silverman stated, reinforcing that the County's delays have significantly impacted the project timeline and budget.

Commissioners Respond to Rays' Claims

Commissioner Brian Scott, a steadfast supporter of the deal, dismissed the Rays' claims as 'laughable.' He noted that the team has not clarified the exact amount they need to cover increased costs, although Commissioner Chris Latvala mentioned the Rays assessed the additional financial burden to be around $200 million.

In a moment of candor, Latvala revealed his decision to switch his vote in favor of the financing deal was influenced by a conversation with MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred, stating he had more faith in Manfred’s commitment to keeping the team in Tampa Bay than in owner Stuart Sternberg’s.

'I hope our vote today helps set the wheels in motion for a new owner and a new era of the Tampa Bay Rays,' he declared, criticizing the current ownership for being 'penny-pinching' and 'double-dealing.'

Skepticism Over Funding Requests

Other commissioners expressed skepticism over the Rays' requested funding increase, suggesting that the team may be attempting to derail a deal it had previously agreed to. Commissioner Rene Flowers praised the proposed redevelopment project and reiterated the need for accountability from the Rays.

The county's contribution entails a commitment of $312.5 million, financed through hotel and short-term rental taxes designated solely for tourism enhancement. Some St. Petersburg City Council members feel their recent vote to approve bonds for the stadium reflects an attempt to challenge the team's claims.

History of Delays and Community Concerns

The approval of bonds was initially seen as a formality, aligning with the July agreement. However, the aftermath of two hurricanes that wreaked havoc across Tampa Bay, including damaging Tropicana Field, prompted officials to delay discussions to better understand the stadium's future.

As negotiations unfolded, skepticism surrounding the Rays' claims of rising costs was voiced. Even consultants involved in stadium negotiations expressed disbelief that a mere 30-day delay could warrant a $200 million increase in project costs.

No Additional Public Funding

Moreover, both county and city officials have firmly stated they will not allocate additional public funds for this project. Mayor Ken Welch referred to the Rays' assertions of a funding gap as a 'perceived' issue.

The deadline for the Rays to meet specific conditions to access the promised public funding is March 31. Recent communications from Silverman indicated that the team has met only four of the required thirteen criteria and has yet to provide comprehensive financial documentation, including proof of cash reserves necessary to cover their estimated $700 million share of the costs.

Future Plans for Rays

Complicating matters, the Rays have disclosed plans to temporarily play the 2025 season at Steinbrenner Field, home of the New York Yankees, while the Tropicana Field renovations are underway, with the St. Petersburg City Council recently approving an investment of $1.7 million for initial repair work.

As the situation unfolds, the community watches closely to see if the Rays will step up and take the necessary actions to fulfill their part of the deal or risk losing their chance for a new home. Will this be the turning point for the Tampa Bay Rays, or will the team falter under the pressure? Stay tuned!